Seeking planning permission can be stressful, as it involves government rules and regulations. Here, you need to check the government sites as well as the forum posts, which can be contradictory at times. When these sources conflict, expert assistance is recommended. If you are going for a single-storey extension, you may not need planning permission. However, it is always better to check the rules and regulations for lofts, porches, and second-storey house extensions in Southampton.
The Short Answer
For semi-detached or detached houses, a single-storey extension is acceptable up to 4 m deep for detached property and 3 m deep for semi-detached or terraced property. Planning permission is not required in either case. However, you must obtain a Lawful Development Certificate.
Full planning permission is required for larger extensions. If it is a two-storey extension over 3m deep, or the property is a listed building, you need to ask permission from the authorities.
When Do You Need Planning Permission
Single Storey Rear Extension
For a larger home extension up to 8 m deep from the original rear wall and 6m for semi-detached, you need to consult with the neighbours. Overall height can be about 4 m, while eaves height can be up to 3 m within 2 m of the boundary to avoid needing permission.
Large Home Extension
If you are thinking about a build between 3 m and 6 m for a semi-detached home, or 4 m to 8 m for a detached home, you can use the notification route for the larger home extension instead of a full planning application. It is usually a cost-effective and faster process. Here, designs are not judged. However, neighbours’ objections count.
When submitting the drawings and written description, you need to show all adjoining neighbours. Council sends a letter to each neighbour, giving them 21 days to object. If no one objects, the council grants prior approval within 42 days. If a neighbour objects due to privacy and light issues, the application may be refused. Submit the notification and get approval before the work starts. It usually stays valid for about 3 years.
Two-Storey Rear Extension
For this type of extension, strict rules and regulations apply. An optimum depth of 3 m from the existing rear wall is accepted. Under the 7m boundary rules, most two-storey extensions need planning permission. It is usually accepted. Still, you must follow the 8-week planning route.
Side Extensions
Two-storey side extensions always need planning permission. If the extension is more than half the width of the original home or the overall height is over 4m, you have to look for council permission. A side extension to a listed building should have Listed Building Consent in addition to planning permission.
3 Lance Developments Ltd offers house extensions in Southampton. Talk to the experts to find out whether you need planning permission from the council. Experts are well aware of the latest records. For this reason, they can guide you through the process. Contact us today.